We all have moments in life when we get the "blues"—when we feel down and sadness engulfs us. The psalmist David was no exception. Speaking from his own experience, he cried out, "Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God" (42:11). That's good advice for anyone who is facing discouragement.

In the book of Acts we are told about an experience in the life of the apostle Paul while he was on a ship headed to Rome. A violent storm threatened to plunge the vessel and all its passengers to the bottom of the sea.

One night, however, an angel of the Lord appeared and assured the apostle that not a person on board would perish. Paul believed that message and said to his fellow passengers, "Take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me" (Acts 27:25). Like the writer of Psalm 42, Paul put his hope in the Lord.

Even though you may be fearful and discouraged, you can find reason for cheer if you look to the heavenly Father. Remember what David advised, "Hope in God," and then say with the apostle Paul, "I believe God."

The next time you're down, remember to look up!  — Richard De Haan